Hotspots! February 17, 2022 (Issue 3704)

36th Year

Hotspots magazine is published alternate Thursdays (26 issues/year).

Jeff Sterling Chief Executive Officer Scott Holland VP - Operations/Associate Publisher ADMINISTRATION VP - Development | Jamie Forsythe Business Manager | Alyson omas Administrative Assistant | Ryan Isom DIGITAL & TV VP - TV & Digital | Darren Loli Digital Manager | Troy Maillis Special Digital Projects | Austin Rahn Events Manager | Jameer Baptiste ART & DESIGN Art Director | Frank Mendez Designer | Maria Espinal ADVERTISING Account Executives Anthony Verrico — (754) 333-0886 Nicole Covar — (754) 333-0889 NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Chris Azzopardi | Tom Bonanti Maria Espinal | S. Elfman Mike Jeknavorian | Andreus Quinones CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Cedric Roberson | Dale Stine | Dennis Dean | Robert Hadley CELEBRITY HOST Shawn Palacious (“Kitty Meow”) LOGISTICS Cedric Roberson Copyright 2022, WMEG Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without written permission by the Publisher is prohibited.

Publication of the name or photograph or any person, living or dead, is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or organizations.

HOW TO REACH US MAIN OFFICE The Sterling Building 2435 N Dixie Hwy., Wilton Manors, Florida 33305 Phone (754) 200-2979 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Call (754) 200-2979 x 625 or e-mail Classifieds@HotspotsMedia.com DISPLAY ADVERTISING Call (754) 200-2979 x 605 or e-mail Ads@HotspotsMedia.com

WHO WE ARE

WMEG Inc., is a Community Marketing and Events organization incorporating Hotspots magazine and Happening Out Television Network.

Our mission as a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit is to promote South Florida, and especially Wilton Manors,as a welcoming LGBTQ+ destination through marketing and events. WMEG produces about 50 events a year, including the annual Stonewall Pride Parade and Festival in Wilton Manors. Other events include Art Walk on Wilton Drive and Vibes On The Drive. Visit WMEG.org for more info.

WMEG also manages the Sculpture Walk project which is responsible for the installation of sculptures in public spaces in Wilton Manors.

Watch Queer News Tonight streaming live Monday through Thursdays at 7 p.m. at HappeningOut.com

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OUR AUDIENCE Hotspots magazine is available at more than 300 locations from West Palm Beach to Key West and reaches an audience exceeding 300,000 monthly across our print, TV and digital network.

We offer comprehensive and cost-effective advertising programs on multiple platforms including:

• Print Magazine • Web Advertising • E-mail Marketing

• Streaming Video Advertising • Event Marketing • Social Media

O N T H E INSIDE

Issue 04 - Feb.17 - Mar.2, 2022

Cover

Cover Models: Greg Ford Fay Albernas (Fay What??)

Schaffer Zaret Cover photographed by: Dennis Dean DennisDean.com @DennisDeanImages

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Feature: Our 2nd Annual LGBTQ+ Sex Survey | Pix: Hamburger Mary’s Wilton Manors Presents Widow Von'Du | Feature: How to Heal a Hoe | Feature: Mike Ruiz Presents His New Work ‘Leathermen’ | Names & Faces: Dennis Dean | Feature: Where are the girls now: An Interview with Michelle Clunie

Out with Scott / What’s Hot | Scott Holland’s Guide to Events • Pix: Pride Skate February Pix: The Cookout • Deep Inside Hollywood • Pix: Noodle Station Grand Opening & Paul Rolli Reelection Kickoff Hot Places • Hot Eats • Hot Bodies • Pix: Hotspots Art Gallery February Opening • Hot Advice

MARKETPLACE ON PAGE 113

OUT WITH SCOTT

By Scott Holland

finally able to celebrate their GRAND OPENING, but they combined it with their 2 Year Anniversary. Congrats to owners Walter and Mitch and wish them many more years of success!

Also, The Cookout, a Black History Month Field Day Fundraiser, took place from 16pm at the Pride Center For Equality Park Courtyard and featured food, games and Hamburger Marys entertainment. This was a huge success with over 100 people at the cookout! A personal congrats to our own Jameer Baptiste for producing this

Noodle Station

On Friday, February 4, and Saturday, February 5, Hamburger Mary's Wilton Manors presented from RuPaul's Drag Race Season 12, Widow Von'du, who turned it out!

On Saturday, February 5 there were 2 more events. The Noodle Station (3045 N federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale) opened right before the pandemic, so they were 10 | HotspotsMagazine.com

Miss Palm Beach Pride

AHF

Varla Jean Merman

successful event!

On Monday, February 7, Compass Community Center presented their annual Miss Palm Beach Pride Pageant at the Lake Worth Playhouse. The event was hosted

by Miss Florida F.I. at Large, Velvet LeNore and the first lady of the Palm Beaches, Melissa St. John, and honored Miss Palm Beach 2020, Taquoya Love Dupree.

Congrats to Crystal Famouz for capturing the title!

presented A West Side Story Burlesque Show at Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park. This event was fun and packed!

That same night, the Outlandish Performing Arts at Sunshine Cathedral presented Varla Jean Merman's “Little Prick” with Gerald Goode on the piano. Once again Varla filled the cathedral and put a show on like only she can!

Also, on Saturday and then again on Sunday Leboy celebrated Valentine's Weekend by presenting ChiChi Larue and one of her sexiest men Arad Winwin (who by the way, does not age!).

On Sunday, February 13 (Superbowl Sunday), Pub on the Drive and Gym Bar presented the biggest tailgate party on the drive with a HUGE 20-foot screen. They do this every year and its always a blast!

On Saturday, February 12 AHF

LeBoy

thePUB

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WHAT’S HOT WHO•WHAT•WHEN•WHERE

By Scott Holland

FEB 17 - MAR 02

Ronnie Marmo as Lenny Bruce Friday February 18 From today until February 27, New England's #1 live singing Judy Garland and Barbra Streisand impersonators, Summer Orlando and Tony Di Pietro, make their return to Empire Stage (1140 N. Flagler DR. Ft. Lauderdale) with this fully scripted 90 minute all live singing cabaret stage show.

Summer and Babs have performed to sold out audiences all over New England, NYC, and Florida from theater venues all the way to restaurants and now are going on the road all across the US. Tickets are $35, but you can get a 20% discount by using the code “Empire” at empirestage.com Bring your pack of dog lovers to FLIFF's Gateway Cinema (1820 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale) for the opening weekend of the “ultimutt” new comedy, road trip movie,

DOG, starring Channing Tatum and a Belgian Malinois named Lulu. The film opens today, and on Sunday, Feb. 20, from 12:45 p.m. – 4:15 p.m., you could meet your new best friend when you join Abandoned Pet Rescue for the movie and pet adoption day at Gateway Cinema. Army Ranger Briggs (Channing Tatum) and Lulu (a Belgian Malinois dog) buckle into a 1984 Ford Bronco and race down the Pacific Coast in hopes of making it to a fellow soldier's funeral on time. Along the way, they'll drive each other completely crazy, break a small handful of laws, narrowly evade death, and learn to let down their guards in order to have a fighting chance of finding happiness. Fetch more details, and advance tickets at FLIFF.com/Gateway Critically acclaimed actor Ronnie Marmo,

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entertainment. The event is free and open to everyone, but there is a $150 VIP option that features an airconditioned tent, open bar, and bites. For more info, or to purchase VIP tickets, go to: Gay8festival.com.

Latino's Salud annual gala goes Al Fresco and splits over 2 days for greater Covid protection. Tonight, it's from 7-10pm and tomorrow, Sunday, Feb 20 it's from 10:30am to 1:30pm.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, go to: LatinosSalud.org/gala

Oscar’s Birthday Ronnie Marmo as Lenny Bruce with the blessings of Kitty Bruce (daughter of the late Lenny Bruce), along with the Lenny Bruce Foundation, are thrilled to present “I'm Not A Comedian… I'm Lenny Bruce.” Directed by Joe Mantegna, the theatrical event makes its Florida premiere at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts for a limited engagement run through February 20. Tickets are on sale now at LennyBruceOnStage.com.

Saturday, February 19 Gay Ocho (Gay8) is back, and they have expanded to two days. Today it will be from 6-10pm and tomorrow, Sunday, February 20 is from 11am to 10pm on Calle Ocho in Little Havana. Gay 8 features live music, local vendors, dancers, DJ, Drag Queens, The Macho stage, and lots of

Noche Latina Saturdays at the Manor Complex celebrates the birthday of Oscar Novva. The night will also star, direct from Orlando, Onix Mendoza, resident DJ Duniel and sexy Go-Go Papi's. Doors open at 11pm and admission is only $5 until midnight for FL Residents. $10 for Res from midnight to 1am and $15 thereafter. NonFL resident are $15 all night. 21and over!

Boynton Beach Art District HeArt Walk (410 West Industrial Ave.) is sponsored by Art Synergy, and The Box Gallery featuring live dance performance, open studios, music, fun, food and more from 6-9pm. For more information email: BoytonBeachArtDistrict@gmail.com.

LIT Wilton Manors celebrates Mardi Gras with a New Ownership Party. Free food by

Gay 8

Latinos Salud Gala

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Miss and Mr. Noche Latina Chef Victor Lords for people in costumes and that buy a 2-drink minimum.

The Eagle Wilton Manors presents Mr. Florida Rubber from 7-9pm. No cover for this event. Afterwards, they present their “Full Moon Party” starring DJ S-Dot where the invite you to celebrate the darkness in the light of the moon. $10 cover after 9pm.

Sunday, February 20 Le Boy presents Mardi Gras night with beads and boys. Free buffet by Chef Victor Lords for people in costumes and that buy a 2-drink minimum.

Monday, May 21 The 18th Annual Miss and Mr. Noche Latina Pageant (Official Preliminaries to the Florida F.I. And M.E. Pageantry Systems) takes place today at Lips - Fort Lauderdale with the theme of “Burlesque”. The night will star Velvet Lenore and Hamed Novva (Miss & Mr. Noche Latina 2020) as well as Melony Munro, and Gutavo Rodriguez Cruz (Miss, and Mr. Florida 2021/22), as well as plenty of the Noche Latina formers. Categories for Competition are Evening Gown/Wear, Swimsuit, Talent and Q&A. Doors open at 8pm and the pageant starts promptly at 9pm with general admission in advance is $20 (includes a seat) and VIP seats $30 (best seats in the place)! For more information, to order tickets, or to sponsor pageant call 954-478-4587.

Tuesday, February 22 Join the Bears of South Florida on at 6:30pm at Carrabba's Italian Grill in Pompano Beach (1299 S. Federal Hwy.) for a four-course meal paired with wine. The menu is as follows: Bruchetta Scotty Thompson, Italian Salad, Chicken Bryan with Penne Pomodoro, and John Cole (Vanilla Ice Cream with Caramel and Cinnamon Rum Roasted Pecans). Enjoy some of Carrabba's favorite dishes and learn how the wines were paired with each dish, while socializing with your fellow Bears. The price is $55 per person (at Eventbrite) and does not include gratuities. They will have a "Bears only" section of the dining room. A free raffle with a range of prizes from the restaurant will follow the meal.

Thursday, February 24 Business for the Arts Broward's, Arts Mean Business Speaker Series, continues in February with a live presentation and Q&A with renowned artist, businessman and jewelry designer Zameer Kassam from 6 to 7:30pm. Hosted by General Provision Downtown, the event takes place at 300 SW 1st Ave., Suite 155 in Fort Lauderdale and is presented by the Community Foundation of Broward James and Cathy Donnelly Family Fund and the Castle Group. Participants who wish to attend the event must email their RSVP to rvegas@bfabroward.org by Wednesday, February 23.

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Ben Platt

Guy Harvey

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in Jamar Robert's Holding Space Friday, February 25 Grammy, Tony and Emmy award-winning recording artist and songwriter Ben Platt will bring “The Reverie Tour” to Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood on at 8 p.m. Tickets are available at myhrl.com. Doors open one hour prior to show time.

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami Dade County is pleased to announce the return of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater to the Ziff Ballet Opera House stage today and tomorrow. The much-anticipated homecoming engagement celebrates Miami's own Robert Battle on a decade as Artistic Director and Ailey Resident Choreographer Jamar Roberts in a farewell appearance, along with the 50th anniversary of Alvin Ailey's Cry. Known for bringing audiences to their feet, Ailey's extraordinary dancers will perform new and classic works with their trademark technical brilliance and passionate artistry. Tickets may be purchased at the Adrienne Arsht Center box office by calling (305) 949-6722, or online at Arshtcenter.org.

Saturday, February 26 Hamburger Mary's Wilton Manors presents 80's Teen Icon and vocalist “TIFFANY” performing live. Seating is

7pm with showtime at 8pm. Tickets on sale at Eventbrite.c om, keywords Tiffany and Hamburger Mary's or you can scan the QR code in their ad in this mag.

Photo: Paul Kolnik 8

Vibes on the Drive

Tiffany

The Key West Business Guild's Fundraising 38th Annual Headdress Ball, after a twoyear's absence due to the pandemic, returns as a special Mardi Gras Edition at 8pm at the Coffee Butler amphitheater.

Seating for the tables and General Admission has been distance spread out this year. First Place prize is $3,000; Second Place is $1000, and Third Place is $ 500 for the best Headdresses, judged from the shoulders up. Eight great talent acts by Key West performers will also be featured.

Laurie Thibaud of Aqua Idol fame will be the emcee. Christopher Peterson opens the show and there will be a special act by the Aquanettes. Proceeds from the Headdress Ball go to promote LBGTQ+ Tourism to Key West. Following the show, there will be a special Happy Hour Disco Dance at the Aqua Sidebar.

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The Eagle Wilton Manors presents a Mardi Gras Extravaganza with free beads, hot dancers and starring DJ Dan Deleon. $15 cover all night.

The Lambda Brotherhood presents their spring kickoff pool party at Inn Leather from 12-5pm.

The $25 admission includes food.

Sunday, February 27 Starting today through through October 2, 2022, NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale will present Keith Haring and Pierre Alechinsky, the first exhibition dedicated to exploring the historic and visual intersections between American street artist and art activist Keith Haring (1958-1990) and virtuosic Belgian painter, Pierre Alechinsky (b. 1927), the last surviving member of the European avantgarde art movement, CoBrA. Wednesday, March 2 Hotspots Magazine and Happening Out TV present Pride Skate which this month celebrates “Mardi Gras” at Xtreme Action Park from 7-10pm. Pride Skate, which takes place the first Wednesday of every month is a fundraiser for Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade and street festival. The event features DJ T-Pro mix, divas Velvet Lenore and Rianna Petrone, skating, and a full liquor bar. For more information, or to purchase tickets, go to: Xtremeactionpark.com/stonewall-prideskate-nights.

Feel Good Story Harrison, was at “Brad Casey's Celebration of Life” at The Pride Center at Equality Park.

Afterwards he was walking from the celebration to Publix at 5 points where he found in front of Funeral home a little dog

Pride Skate trying to cross Dixie Highway. He took it around asking if anyone knew the dog.

Keith Haring Then he got an uber to go home with the dog and then he called the police and they told me to come down so they can scan the dog. Once they did, they found the owner who was frantically looking for his dog…..What a great deed Harrison did.

Owner and pet are now reunited!

Here is a pic of Harrison with the dog.

Harrison with Dog

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By Jameer Baptiste Photos By Dennis Dean

The LGBTQ+ community is just that which is communicated in the acronym, wide-ranging and diverse. We are not a monolithic group in the scene that we are all cut from the same cloth. Yes, we strive for equality as a whole and advocate on our community's behalf mainly as one voice but when it comes to many things, one in particular, sex, we are unique and intrinsically different in nature. We all explore our sexuality differently, which is one of the empowering unapologetic attributes of our community. However, in our 2nd year Annual Sex Survey we learned that no matter how diverse and unique our community is, there are some similarities we share when it comes to our sexual behaviors.

Unique Facts About The LGBTQ+ and Sexual Expression and Relationship Norms Bisexuals make up the largest share of LGBT Americans. An analysis by UCLA's Williams Institute in 2011 found that bisexuals accounted for about 1.8% of the total U.S. adult population at the time. A slightly smaller share (1.7%) were gay or lesbian. And the latest Williams Institute estimates, from 2016, find that 0.6% of U.S. adults, or 1.4 million people, identify as transgender. (pewresearch.org)

Gay men and lesbians are more likely than bisexuals to be "out," according to the 2013 Pew Research Center survey. Overall, only 28% of bisexuals say that all or most of the important people in their lives are aware that they are LGBT. Meanwhile, 77% of gay men and 71% of lesbians say the same. Bisexual women are much more likely than bisexual men to say most of their friends and family know about their sexuality. (pewresearch.org)

(Falsehood) People who are Gay, Lesbian, or Bisexual are promiscuous and have no family values. People who are Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, or Straight have a range of sexual behaviors

which range from promiscuity to strictly monogamous. Many people who are Gay, Lesbian, or Bisexual, or Straight cherish and practice traditional family values of support, love, understanding, mutual respect, and community. Discrimination, prejudice, and hate are not family values. (wright.edu)

LGBTQ+ couples are more willing to think outside the box of what a typical relationship should look like and be more open to nontraditional relationship models. They are more likely to resist social norms in their partnerships and embrace polyamory and nonmonogamy. The lack of social scripts and cultural templates give LGBTQ+ partners a chance to make their own rules. LGBTQ+ partners can make their own traditions, celebrations and relationship priorities. (open.edu)

Celebration of sexuality doesn't always apply to the public arena. LGBTQ+ partners were less likely to show affection in public, often caused by fears around social stigma and personal safety.

Living in a society where your

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“There is no doubt that locking the lips while in the act is important to most.”

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wellbeing is at risk takes bravery and courage to be who you are. It also requires you to own your vulnerabilities and be sensitive to those of your partner. (open.edu)

Same-sex couples are much more willing to share traditionally 'masculine' or 'feminine' roles at home alongside routine tasks. In contrast, research on heterosexual relationships consistently shows that the responsibility for domestic chores falls disproportionately onto women.

Men are far more likely to overestimate the time they spend on chores, while women underestimate their time. (open.edu)

LGBTQ+ couples are therefore more reflexive, they actively and explicitly work through – together – how they want their relationship to work. Young LGBTQ+ people expressed highly emotional, rational and pragmatic reasons for committing rather than simply falling into the trope of marriage.

As such, while they conformed to traditional relationship scripts in one way, they were also active and sometimes highly reflexive 'scripters' of convention. (open.edu)

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“Foreplay still tops the list as an important precursor to actual sex.”

Sex Then & Now

The similarities and differences from our first Sex Study in 2021 to our 2022 Sex Study results.

In our 2021 Sex Survey we pointed out 3 key questions that stood out to us while reviewing the numbers: How Often, Slow and Easy, and Kissing is Key. This year after receiving more respondent answers (312 respondents) to the survey than last year, we revisit

those 3 key questions to see if the numbers read the same.

We leave it up to you whether the new numbers shock you or not. But we must admit, the trend to what we as individuals know we like and what we want has not wavered much.

How Often: In 2021 a majority of our respondents (52.8%) reported they have sex regularly and that's still the case in 2022. In fact, this year's survey presented a higher overall percentage (53.6%) than last year.

Slow and Easy: Foreplay still tops the list as an important precursor to actual sex. In the 2021 Sex Survey 86% of respondents emphatically screamed "Yes" foreplay is important. And this year the same sentiment was echoed at a slightly higher frequency of 89.4%.

Kissing is Key: If our 2021 Sex Survey didn't make it clear then the reinforcement of our 2022 Sex Survey puts the debate to bed. There is no doubt that locking the lips while in the act is important to most. In 2021 52% of respondents reported kissing as the highest of importance on a scale from 1 to 5, 5 being the highest. And currently, 60.2% of respondents say kissing is very important.

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“LGBTQ+ couples are more willing to think outside the box of what a typical relationship should look like and be more open to non-traditional relationship models.”

To read results from our 2nd Annual Sex Survey, scan the QR code.

“...in our 2nd year Annual Sex Survey we learned that no matter how diverse and unique our community is, there are some similarities we share when it comes to our sexual behaviors.”

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The Cookout

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Black History Month Field Day Fundraiser

Photos: Cedric Roberson

Wags, Whiskers & Wine A President’s Day Weekend Sangria Event BENEFITING CANINE ASSISTED THERAPY, INC.

Riverwalk of Fort Lauderdale, Versare LLC and Sawyer & Latimer, P.A present Wags, Whiskers & Wine taking place on February 19th & 20th from 1:00 – 8:30pm at Huizenga Park at Riverwalk, 32 E. Las Olas Boulevard.

Wags, Whiskers & Wine is a family friendly outdoor charity event for people and pooches featuring music and entertainment, authentic Spanish Sangrias, a food court, marketplace, pet-promenade, live raffle drawings, and much more!

Proceeds from Wags, Whiskers & Wine will benefit Canine Assisted Therapy (C.A.T.), a Broward County nonprofit human services organization dedicated to improving the health and well being of those in need through the use of certified pet therapy teams and the power of the human-animal bond.

Event tickets are $20 per person and include two glasses of Sangria. Children 12 and under are free and must be accompanied by an adult. Leashed dogs accompanied by their owner are welcome.

Tickets can be purchased upon entry or at sangriaweekend.info Enjoy tasty treats from award-winning Pastry Chef Max Santiago; Chef Jorge Luis from Valencia Spain is serving tasty gourmet Paellas; Stroll through the marketplace featuring local vendors and artists; Watch a Police K-9 demonstration or learn pet CPR techniques; Rock out to music from Social Illusion, The Priorities, Bossa Fusion Duo, Jessie Campo and more!

Canine Assisted Therapy Inc. (C.A.T.), a human services nonprofit organization, consists of 114 certified pet therapy teams who provide therapeutic visits and comfort to over 70 facilities in South Florida. C.A.T.'s 36 | HotspotsMagazine.com

therapy dogs help thousands of people every year. Our pet therapy teams work with seniors, Veterans, trauma victims, struggling students, at-risk youth, hospital and hospice patients, children and adults with special needs, and many others.

Canine Assisted Therapy was instrumental in helping the Parkland community start the healing process after the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018 and aided first responders and families affected by the condo collapse in Surfside. The organization's mission is to improve the health and well-being of children and adults by achieving specific physical, cognitive, social, or emotional goals through the use of certified pet therapy teams.

For more information visit catdogs.org.

Hamburger Mary s Wilton Manors Presents Widow Von'Du

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Photos: Cedric Roberson & Robert Hadley

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By Romeo San Vicente

Photo: Ivory Aquino’s Facebook

Simmons and Brendan Fraser, as well as Michael Keaton as, yes, Batman. It all comes back around.

JODIE FOSTER JOINS DIANA NYAD BIOPIC The last time we told you about the Diana Nyad biopic in the works, Annette Bening was cast as the legendary lesbian long-distance swimmer (she made it from Florida to Cuba) and that was everything we knew. We also thought it was everything we needed to know. And then along came Jodie Foster, another legendary lesbian, who's just been cast as Bonnie Stoll, Nyad's coach and longtime friend. And in case this project is fresh news for you, it's called "Nyad," it's based on Nyad's book, "Find a Way," it's adapted by Ann Biderman ("Ray Donovan") and Julia Cox, and it'll be directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin ("Free Solo"), making their narrative feature debut.

Ivory Aquino

Ivory Aquino has been cast in the HBO Max feature film "Batgirl" as Alysia Yeoh. In the DC comic book series Yeoh is Barbara Gordon/Batgirl's best friend, and she is also transgender.

Aquino, too, is trans, and that means the actress – who previously co-starred in "Tales of the City" and "When We Rise" – will make history as the first trans character in a DC Comics movie. Now, those of you paying attention will note that there's been a DC Universe trans character 44 | HotspotsMagazine.com

on the CW series "Supergirl" (played by Nicole Maines), and that welcome first step has led to this exciting follow through with the DC film world. And of course the news broke first on Instagram. "Batgirl" star Leslie Grace ("In the Heights") recently dropped the hint about the casting on her account, and it was just confirmed officially. As for the rest of the cast, "Batgirl" will feature J.K.

Photo: wikimedia

Ivory Aquino makes history in 'Batgirl' for DC

Jodie Foster

Photo: wikimedia

THE DEVIL AND LEE DANIELS You may recall hearing about the "Ammons Haunting" of 2011, in which an Indiana family allegedly tormented by demons consulted a priest to perform exorcisms. The story made news because official entities like the Department of Child Services, the police, and various healthcare workers apparently were witnesses. And now, after a major bidding war, Lee Daniels is planning to bring the as-yet-untitled film version of the sensational

Photo: Netflix

Here's hoping that the addition of Foster signals more forward momentum on this long-gestating project, because we need it in front of our eyes sooner, not later.

And the thought of these two titans on screen together makes us so excited we might just try to swim from Miami to Cuba ourselves.

Antoni Porowski

story to Netflix. Cast is already set: Academy Award nominee Andra Day ("The United States vs.

Billie Holiday") will star alongside Octavia Spencer, Glenn Close, Rob Morgan, Caleb McLaughlin and Aunjanue Ellis.

Production is set for mid2022, and expect some freaky special effects, as the story involves, Linda Blair-style, kids levitating and walking backwards up the walls. Say what you want about Satan being evil, but he's mostly a stunt queen.

Andra Day

'QUEER EYE' STAR ANTONI POROWSKI JOINS CAST OF 'SPOILER ALERT' The latest project starring Jim Parsons, "Spoiler Alert," has been in development for over three years now, which

by Hollywood standards isn't all

that long, but the longer these things linger, it's often the case that they become less likely to ever see the light of day. So it's excellent news that more cast members have just been added to the project. The Michael Showalter drama based on Michael Ausiello's memoir about being a caretaker for his terminally ill partner, photographer Kit Cowan, already had Parsons, Ben Aldridge and Sally Field in place. But now more names have signed on, including Tony Award winner Nikki M. James ("The Book of Mormon"), Jeffery Self ("Search Party"), Bill Irwin ("Rachel Getting Married") and "Queer Eye" food guy Antoni Porowski. The addition of extra cast is welcome because it means cameras roll soon – we hope – and the addition of Porowski is particularly nice news because if craft services doesn't show up he can make snacks for the crew.

Romeo San Vicente is here for it, whatever it is.

Noodle Station

Grand Opening

Reelection Kick-off for Paul Rolli

Photos: Cedric Roberson

Photos: Robert Hadley

By Maria Espinal

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1. The Crystal Kayak Company 98 SE 7th Street • Deerfield Beach, FL 33441 888-415-9692 • crystalkayak.com • Mon – Fri 9am-5pm This might just be your next toy...a transparent kayak/canoe! Can you imagine using a kayak that lets you experience gorgeous clear water destinations?

Besides the kayay, the crystal paddleboard is also available, as well as other accessories. Crystal kayaks & boards, produced by the world's leading manufacturer and distributor, are built from the best materials to ensure optimum durability and functionality, designed for any skill level from the newest kayaker to the most seasonal sports person.

3. Lucky House Mystical 1873 S State Rd 7 • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33317 954-451-3779 • luckyhousemysticalstore.com Mon - Fri 10am – 7pm • Sat 10am – 7pm Looking to enhance your spiritual growth. Whether at location or shopping online, you’ll find a vast selection of incense & herbs, oils, candles, crystals, stone bracelets, pendulums, books and more. You can also find Archangels, Buddah, Egyptian, African, Santos, Elephants and more figurines at a great price, as well as their customer service. Lucky House has everything you need for cleansing of the body, mind and spirit. Namaste.

2. Miami Open 347 Don Shula Drive • Miami Gardens, FL 33056 305.943.8000 • miamiopen.com • Mar 21 - Apr 3 Scheduled to take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL, tickets are already available for one of the most-awaited event this year. Choose tickets for single sessions or get a package to enjoy the different areas at the stadium. Attendance numbers are expected to break 2019's at 390,000. Let's proudly remember 1985 when our own Martina Navratilova was the Miami Open's first winner, along with Tim Mayotte for the men's singles. Make sure to check their website for the latest information as we get close to event dates as well as seats and prices for each game.

4. Fort Lauderdale Watersports 1406 N. Ocean Blvd. • Pompano Beach, FL 33062 954.462.7266 • ftlauderdaleparasail.com • open daily Let’s go parasailing! Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale Beach right next door to the Jungle Queen and voted #1 in our area, Fort Lauderdale Watersports offers families, couples and individuals a-once-in-lifetime experience too see beautiful Fort Lauderdale from a different perspective. Hop aboard, either by yourself or with someone special for an unforgettable experience. Rates start at $95pp; group rates are available. You can fly between 300ft to 500ft high, their captain will have final decision on weight and winds. Fly away!

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HOT Puzzle DOWN

ACROSS

1 Caribbean pirate portrayer Johnny 5 Drinks made from fruits 9 Opera villain, usually 14 Baltic Sea feeder 15 Coal porter's vehicle?

16 Artist Hernandez 17 Adriatic seaport 18 Put on the staff 19 Plans from Richard Simmons 20 First Lady advised by 36Across 23 Start of a rhyme about a tiger 24 Score for Burke 25 Queen toppers 28 Three-pointer for the Atlanta Dream?

33 Potpourri scent 34 Gay nightlife district of London 35 Blood classification syst.

36 African-American fashion icon known for capes and caftans 40 Uey from NNW 41 Meat that goes in your boxers 42 Witherspoon, who played Elle 43 Shakespearean roles, for example 46 Used rubbers 47 Mandela org.

48 Bard's river 49 Publication edited by 36-Across 55 West Side Story factions 56 Topped the cake 57 Village People's "In the ___" 59 "Wise Up" singer Mann 60 Nathan of Modern Family 61 Fox comedy with Jane Lynch 62 You can go down on them in winter 63 Morse's shorts 64 Highsmith's The Price of ___

>>>>>> To see answers, visit hotspotsmagazine.com/crossword

1 3/25/1947, to Elton John (abbr.)

2 Source of red balls 3 Gilpin who played Roz on Frasier 4 Intense competition at Barneys 5 Birthplace of Socrates 6 In a straight-faced way 7 Dixie Chicks' "Goodbye ___" 8 Nemesis of Tinkerbell 9 One that can bite you in the sack 10 Margaret Cho's ancestors, e.g.

11 Banana stalk 12 “___ good example" 13 Areas for Dr. Kerry Weaver 21 From this place, to King James 22 Second-guesser's words 25 Fastener on a necklace 26 Step in the salon 27 Like Tyne, to Timothy 28 Froot ___ 29 Cry after getting the shaft 30 Drags in 31 Too big for your britches 32 Played (with) 34 Ward of Once and Again 37 Shaft of a knight 38 Grain for Lorca 39 Sexual preferences, for example 44 Hung loosely 45 Burdens of proof 46 Gives the slip to 48 One who often screws actors 49 Colorado ski area 50 Janis Joplin's "Down ___" 51 Salsa rating 52 Fruit high in antioxidants 53 Simba's Broadway love 54 Big name in stunt riding 55 Pump purchase 58 To date

How to Heal a Hoe A Loving Self-Healing Approach to Sexual Stigma, Shame and Trauma

58 | HotspotsMagazine.com

"Sex is natural and an integral part of adult life," says Byron Jamal, the former pastor turned Love Guru. "However, despite sharing it with lovers, partners, and even strangers, many of us feel uncomfortable discussing sex."

When Mr. Jamal recognized how his own sexual hang-ups were harming people around him and himself, he decided to dig deeper into its source. He confronted his sexual shame, the trauma from his past, and the stigma he was carrying, and decided to abandon conventional views on sex and sexuality and develop his own approach to sex.

In How To Heal A Hoe, the Love Guru combines the spiritual principles he preached as a pastor

“Loving your inner hoe is the key to a healthy sexual love journey..."

Photos: Facebook.com/byronjamalpage

with the practical everyday techniques he uses today in his practice as a Love Guru. He coaches men and women — single, married, and of all sexual orientations — on how to overcome their perceived "hoe-ness."

Programs that focus on sexual trauma healing can be exhausting and expensive.

The Love Guru makes the process easier and even fun. In How To Heal A Hoe, readers learn to unlock the self-healing powers they didn't know they had. Some of the topics include: · Overcoming the stigma, shame and trauma of one's past. · Expanding the range of one's emotional intimacy. · Owning one's journey through a selfhealing approach. · Transforming oneself into their best version. · Ditching destructive sexual traits.

After completing Byron Jamal's How To Heal A Hoe, readers will be able to identify their sexual vulnerabilities, pain points and

find their own path to healing. They will learn to love themselves, their bodies and their passions, as they are as God created them to be. "Loving your inner hoe is the key to a healthy sexual love journey," says the Love Guru.

Byron Jamal is the founder of the Extraordinary Love Academy and Beloved Community, which serves thousands of diverse men and women through live seminars and digital programs. As a bisexual love healer, Byron is able to aid all types of people regardless of their sexual orientation. He also serves as a love coach for singles and couples. He splits his time between teaching love and spiritual practices and spending time with friends and family.

Byron Jamal's How To Heal A Hoe is available on Amazon. For more information on Byron, go to byronjamal.com or social media @byronjamal.

HotspotsMagazine.com | 59

Presents his New Work

LEATHERMEN

H

otspots has interviewed and featured New Jersey based photographer Mike Ruiz beautiful images quite a few times. Mike who has been featured on America's and Canada's Next Top Model, RuPaul's Drag Race, along with dozens of other television appearances, has started an ongoing

68 | HotspotsMagazine.com

series to highlight the beauty & diversity of the leather community to show that it's not about just wearing leather or kinky sex.

Ruiz had an open call in October of 2021 to leather men of all ages, races, sizes and backgrounds to appear in this series. After reaching out to

members of the community through social media and word of mouth, many men volunteered, seeing the importance of sharing their love of leather and what it means to them.

During his travels, meeting, and bonding with these men Ruiz saw how free and empowered they are which granted him power to let go of a lot of his own personal hang-ups about sex and relationships.

Much of the project happens while the camera is sat down. Talking to the men while they prepare their formals, polish their boots and light their cigars, Ruiz listens to them as they discuss the mental changes that happen while they get dressed and how impactful this part of the process really is to the final image that is presented.

Below is an interview with Mike where he discusses his new project: What inspired out to begin this project?

This project was born out of my deep desire to explore a part of myself that has been underlying my entire life. After a year of pandemic-induced introspection, I realized that I had been denying a part of myself mostly out of self-imposed shame. You see, as a gay man, I've lived through the toxic shame of being gay, being attracted to men, having sex with men not to mention body shame. I decided that once I was vaccinated, I would explore these things without embarrassment or apprehension.

And I did! I sought out ways to experience a

sexual liberation that I hadn't known before which included kink.

Not only was it intoxicating, but it was also actually therapeutic. From that I was introduced to the leather community and some of its history. I discovered that being a leather man wasn't only about wearing leather or kinky sex. It's

I sought out ways to experience a sexual liberation that I hadn't known before which included kink. Not only was it intoxicating, but it was also actually therapeutic.

about a community of men who form a very strong brotherhood with a rich history rooted in community service and inclusion dating back to the 60s. The more I learned, the more I wanted to know. I figured the only way to get an accurate account was to go to the sources. I wanted to do something that would satisfy my personal interests and celebrate these men in the process.

That's when The Leathermen Mike Ruiz Project was born.

What is it about leather and leathermen that is so attractive/inspiring to you?

To me, it/they denote sexual freedom and authority. There is something raw and carnal about the uniform and what it represents. Much like many gay men, I've 70 | HotspotsMagazine.com

always been hugely inspired by the hyper masculine aesthetic of Tom Of Finland's art.

Not only have I tried to adopt it for myself, but it's manifested in my work as a photographer from the earliest days of my career. Having come of age in the 80s, I understood the need to present as hypermasculine as a way to compensate for being gay but as much as I was turned on by the leather man aesthetic, I was too riddled with shame about sex to embrace it. I was aroused by it but was terrified of it. Arousal ultimately won that internal struggle at the age of 56 and now I'm consumed by it!

Fortunately, I can work out a lot of my stuff through my work. Photographing all these men is so satisfying to me in so many ways beyond creative gratification.

How were you able to find so many

well-respected men from the leather community to participate in your project?

It was a combination of throwing out a broad net by making a post on social media and the help and guidance of a couple of well-respected Leathermen whom I had befriended prior embarking on this project.

How has this project impacted you personally?

When I started this, I could never have anticipated how personal it would become. Firstly, I've met and bonded with some incredible men. Also, by seeing how free and empowered they are its empowering to me. As this progresses it's helping me let go of a lot of hang ups that I've had about sex and relationships. Also, so many of the men have been so supportive and understanding of my selfexploration journey.

simultaneously. One does not preclude the other. I'm a complex person with varied ideals, interests, and proclivities. I'm hoping that they will all converge conflict free. Also, It's not only about the wardrobe for me. I'm drawn mostly to the mindset and the approach to living and loving.

What do you hope to accomplish with this project?

Ultimately, I'm hoping to shine more light on a beautiful community that has contributed so much to LGBTQ history.

How do you think this project is impacting the men you are photographing?

I couldn't tell you. You might have to ask them. What I have observed, however, is how it's created a network of leathermen who are only connected by this project.

Unwittingly being that conduit is really gratifying for me. Also, I've been getting a lot of really heartfelt emails form leather men from around the world telling me how powerful it is to see men like them being represented.

What will the final result be from this project?

I would like to do a book and a gallery show or two, both of which seem very likely at this point. Who knows what else will come from this? I hope that this project will become a time capsule that will keep the leather community's rich history alive for a long time to come. As it progresses, so many men are wanting to participate. As long as there is interest, I will keep going.

You are staunch animal activist. how do you reconcile your advocacy for animals and leather?

It is possible to have very diverse interests HotspotsMagazine.com | 71

By Maria Espinal

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Choose from their extensive wines & champagnes list to go with exquisite appetizers like greek sampler, mussuels with white wine and garlic or stuffed zucchini with eggplant, almonds, walnuts, feta, garlic yogurt, tomato sauce. For their main dishes we should highlight their beef souvlaki , lamb chops over orzo pilaf and chicken kebab with orzo pilaf and maroulosalata. καλή όρεξη!

76 | HotspotsMagazine.com

By Tom Bonanti

CRUNCH THAT MIDSECTION TO

STREAM-LINED PERFECTION!

There's one sure way to strengthen, tone and sculpt that ornery midsection and that is by performing crunches, pure and simple. Forget traditional sit-ups – they're tough on your neck, lower back, and they hardly isolate the rectus abdominus and obliques, which make up your so called "six-pack". Remember also that a trim and fit midsection will eliminate lower back pain issues.

Crunches don't require as much motion as sit ups, but they're tougher.

90 | HotspotsMagazine.com

Performed properly, a crunch requires total contraction of the abdominals and obliques and there's no relaxation point during each repetition. Doing crunches regularly will streamline your midsection faster than any other exercise or crazy ab contraption sold online or on TV. Here are some standing and lying crunches. Perform 3 sets of 15 reps of each crunch. I suggest working abdominals like any other muscle group- 2 to 3 times per week, intensely for 10 to 15 minutes per session. Go slowly and feel the burn!

SIDE BENDS: Stand with feet wide apart and hands behind the head. Bend to the right as far as you can. Pause, then rise and bend to the left. These will tighten and tone obliques which are rarely seen even on the trimmest guy, but strong obliques will streamline the waist- line!

STANDING CRUNCHES: Stand with hands behind head and feet shoulder width apart. Bend to the left and extend the left elbow forward. Pause, return to starting position and next bend and extend the right elbow forward.

TWISTING CRUNCHES: Lie on your back with hands behind a raised head with legs bent and feet flat on the floor. Proceed to raise the head and shoulders off the floor, twisting with all your might to the left. Pause, return to starting position and rise and twist to the right.

FEET ELEVATED CRUNCHES: Lie on your back with hands behind head and legs bent at 90degree angles, the lower legs on a bench, chair, or exercise ball. Raise shoulders off the floor. Pause, then lower to starting position. Be careful not to pull on your head or neck as you crunch up.

Feel the burn as you let your abs crunch to do all the work.

SINGLE LEG CRUNCHES: Lie on your back with hands behind a raised head, with the left leg extended outward and the right leg bent, foot flat on the floor. Proceed to simultaneously raise shoulders off the floor while extending the left leg up. Pause, then lower to starting position. Perform 15 reps, then switch leg positions for another set.

REVERSE CRUNCHES: Lie on your back with hands behind a raised head with legs raised and bent at 90degree angles.

Proceed to raise hips off the floor, extending knees toward the head. Pause, then lower to starting position.

Certainly, the above routine will strengthen and tone your abs, but that's only part of the battle. Performing regular cardio (3-4 times per week for 15 minutes to an hour) and a low-fat diet are essential to your program if you really want all that hard work to show off a dynamite six pack!

Tom Bonanti is a certied tness trainer and massage therapist (MA#40288) with his own one on one gym in Ft. Lauderdale. Contact trainertomb@aol.com with questions or to set up a free tness consultation.

HotspotsMagazine.com | 91

By Mike Jeknavorian

Dennis Dean Photographer

HotSpots Sex Issue photographer discusses life behind the voyeuristic lens.

What's your claim-to-fame?

My claim-to-fame would be that I'm an award-winning photographer, who photographs men artistically.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in a small town in Alabama called Sylacauga.

What's something special about Sylacauga that isn't common knowledge?

The famous Jim Nabors was born there—you know, Gomer Pyle. I got to meet him at his concert in Birmingham. He invited me to dinner, and his best friend called while we were eating. It was Carol Burnett.

What do you miss about Alabama?

I miss my family. They've always been supportive of me, when I knew I was gay at age 11.

How long have you lived in South Florida?

I've been here since October 1995.

Why did you move here?

I got a job as the general manager for the Fort Lauderdale Players.

What part of South Florida do you live in?

I now live in Oakland Park.

What do you like most about living here?

I love the people, the different cultures, and the location. There are so many wonderful places and people to photograph here.

If you had to live somewhere else other than here, where would you live?

I would say London. When I did my two 96 | HotspotsMagazine.com

exhibitions there, I got to know my way around. Plus, who doesn't like a British accent?!

Where do you hang out in South Florida?

If I'm not photographing at the beach, or at one of the amazing gay guesthouses we have here, I'm exploring Wilton Drive. There are many great bars and restaurants there.

What South Florida venue do you miss that's gone?

I miss the Copa. That was a fun place, and I had some good times there.

Which one of your old jobs least prepared you for what you do now?

I was on a theatre scholarship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and I had a job where we would tour around the

state of Alabama singing and dancing showtunes.

I don't usually dance when I'm photographing; however, I have caught myself singing a showtune (laughs).

What first drew you to photography?

I got my first camera at age 14. I learned early on that I could make the cute boys smile back at me when I photograph them.

What was your first professional gig?

Photographing the mayor of my hometown for the local newspaper.

I got $75 for the shoot.

Other than yourself, who's your favorite photographer?

Herb Ritts. I got to meet him when he exhibited his photography here at the Fort Lauderdale Museum. He was a kind-hearted and very talented man who died too young.

Is print photography a higher art than digital photography?

I've done them both. When I had my dark room and processed the film and saw the image from the chemicals onto the paper, it was magic; it was art! It's so exciting; I do

miss it. However, now it's all about how fast can you get the edited image to me. I'll say there are some advantages to that.

You can edit, colorcorrect, and crop your image to perfection.

But you not only need to be a good photographer, you must know how to edit to get the results the client wants. I've created and seen amazing digital photography art. I would say they're both a higher art. Print is more vintage art, and digital is modern art.

What's the best magazine cover that you ever shot?

Last year's Hotspots Sex Issue cover. I got to photograph five beautiful people who represented each letter in "LGBTQ." Who would you love to photograph?

Any celebrity, local model, or brand that has my photo work on a building or billboard in Times Square. That's always been one of my goals.

What local personality who's gone would you love to have photographed?

I adored Pompano Bill. Many of you have been photographed by him over the years while you were out and about. I would love to have photographed him with the background of photographs of all the men he shot.

What's the best photography show that you were ever in?

I was excited about the opening show last month that I coordinated and curated with incredible artists from ArtsUnited, along with my HotspotsMagazine.com | 97

photography at the new Hotspots Art Gallery. We had an amazing crowd, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and the awardwinning artist Axel Martinez gifted me a huge painting of myself! We sold lots of art.

That was definitely a night to remember and the best show ever!

Of all the pictures you've ever taken, what's your favorite one?

The image is called "Within Reach." It's the cover image of my first book. It was taken over 20 years ago, but it's an artistic and timeless photograph of a beautiful man lying in a stable.

What genre do you like to work in the best?

I like to photograph pets, headshots, and commercial products. But my favorite is photographing men artistically.

What was the most difficult thing that you ever photographed?

Crying babies are the most difficult. I say never again, but once you see their adorable face with their two dads, how can you not be patient and create the photo that they'll cherish forever?

What's the hottest shoot that you were ever on?

I was on photo assignment in Las Vegas shooting for Passport Magazine for their annual Swimwear Issue. I was photographing these four beautiful models at Caesars Palace, and all of a sudden a huge crowd gathered and started watching me photographing these guys, and at the end of the session they all applauded.

What's the strangest thing that ever happened to you on a shoot?

I almost got arrested shooting a model in front of Buckingham Palace in London. He was totally nude, but had a full-length coat on—it was freezing weather in January. I started photographing him while he was opening his coat. A few clicks in, I see two white cars 98 | HotspotsMagazine.com

coming near us. And yes indeed it was the London Police saying to me, "What are you doing?" I turned my Southern accent on and told them that I was from Alabama and I wanted to photograph my friend wearing this coat in front of the Queen's house to give to my friends in Alabama. They asked my friend, "Are you nude under your coat?" He was honest and said yes, also in a Southern accent, but he was British (laughs). They looked at both of us and said, "You got 30 seconds to get out of here, or you're going with us." We of course got the hell out of there.

Of all the photography awards that you've won, which won is the most special to you?

It was the very first award that I won. I was 19 years old at my hometown's annual art festival. My family was so proud of me, and they knew that I had the drive to be a famous photographer one day.

What would do you for a career if you weren't a photographer?

I would be a theatre producer or casting director.

What's your motto about photography?

If your photo is not becoming to you, then you should come to me. So if I've not photographed you, then let's make it happen. And if I have, then what's taken you so long for our next session (laughs).

Where can we see you?

You can see my photography on Instagram at dennisdeanimages, or online at www.dennisdean.com. You can also see my work at the new Hotspots Art Gallery. I showcase new images every month. We have two events per month on the first and third Saturday. The gallery hours are by appointment only by calling (754) 2001577 or by emailing me at ddean@hotspots.lgbt.

became more than just an 83episode show but one that had a huge impact on all viewers exploring critical gay political, health and other LGBT issues.

As we start this column for the girls and as we celebrate love this month, who better than one of my favorite girls who brought one of the QAF's characters (Melanie Marcus) to life and made it unforgettable. I recently spoke to Michelle Clunie about her Queer As Folk memories and what she is up to now.

Where Are

THE GIRLS

Now?

Photo: Alan Wiesman

An Interview with Michelle Clunie

By Maria Espinal

This past December 3 marked the 21st anniversary of the day Babylon's dance floor exploded on TV. It was Showtime's Queer As Folk, still remembered as a groundbreaking drama back when gay marriage wasn't legal in the U.S. and when D.A.D.T. was still in place...remember those days?

With its finale on August 5, 2005, Queer As Folk 104 | HotspotsMagazine.com

I know if has been too long, but what comes to mind when you think back of taping the pilot?

The pilot was so wonderful to film. There was so much passion and excitement. I was very focused on making certain the love scene between mine and Thea's character (Lindsay Peterson) had the feel of a couple that had been together for seven years. We were both aware of that and so we practiced kissing before we began filming. After we shot that initial love scene, the producers came back to us the next day and said it was so intimate that Thea and I really set the bar for intimacy on the show. I was always proud of that, that we set the tone from the very beginning. I also recall the scene with Brian and Melanie where I just went off on him. I told myself if Gale (Gale Harold who played Brian Kinney) was not a little bit afraid of me after we shot that scene then I didn't do my job.

I understand there is a reboot of QAF taping in New Orleans with a new cast. Were you guys contacted to be a part of it?

Would you even want to do it if asked?

Oh, I would share but no, we have not been contacted.

I have seen different cast

Photo: Russell Baer

reunions and I still see that chemistry between you and Thea. Is Melanie that one character that will be remain a big highlight in your career?

I could win an Oscar and Melanie Marcus would always be front and center in my heart and soul. She was such a big piece of me that I was never able to express in other characters. She was the first, fully out, never in the closet, series regular lesbian character in the history of television. She gave zero f*cks and to find that kind of character written for a woman is rare, at least it was rare then.

That said, when she did care- it was heartbreaking. So she had that beautiful duality and contradiction which I love.

Throughout these 20+ years you still remain a supporter/activist of LGBT rights. How have you seen us change or grow over the years as a community?

I think the biggest change I have seen in the LGBTQ community over the last couple decades is the inclusion of transgender rights. In the very beginning when I first became involved in activism I was always questioning why the T in LGBTQ was never included in the conversation around

fighting for rights. I was very upset and would get upset with very big organizations. I think I probably pissed a few people off, but I was always in shock that no one acknowledged leaving members of the community out of the national dialogue. I could not figure it out.

So, to see that change brings tears to my eyes. I also see representation becoming more diverse which is huge and welcomed.

I think outside of the politics of the community, I see this new generation with fewer hang ups around sexuality and a more fluid approach to it which is beautiful.

After QAF you career was very active and maybe some readers don't know that you became a mom in 2015, you’re playing your best role. How has your son changed your life, both personal and professional?

Having Dashiell, who just turned seven, changed everything. I worked some when he was born but I really turned my focus to raising him. I knew I would not get these years back and I wanted to take it all in. He is such a unique and extraordinary little boy with an outlook that blows my mind. When he was only four there was a group of us adults sitting around discussing where space ends and I saw Dashiell listening intently.

Dashiell said, "It ends in the future because it is constantly expanding." We all stopped and stared at him. I still to this day think about that. The genius that comes effortlessly tripping out of his mouth just slays me.

“...the biggest

change I have seen in the LGBTQ community over the last couple decades is the inclusion of transgender rights.”

HotspotsMagazine.com | 105

Photo: Showtime

How have you survived Covid-19, both personal and professional? Have your priorities change?

Ah, yes, the pandemic. Well, so far so good.

My priorities shifted to 'how do I get Dashiell through this and keep him safe?'.

We are going into our second year of homeschooling and it is going really well.

We wrote a children's book together based on one of his kindergarten stories he wrote.

It is for my father who passed away. I also finished a script on the French Resistance.

You know. Dashiell will wake up and put on a pirate costume and dance around the living room to Simon and Garfunkel—that's just how we roll. Creativity is our savior.

How do you see your career from this point on once we get to the new "normal"?

I think If we can gleam one thing from the pandemic maybe it is this idea of seizing the moment. If there is something in your heart, some burning desire, go and create

106 | HotspotsMagazine.com

“She was the first, fully out, never in the closet, series regular lesbian character in the history of television.” it, do it...take that trip, see that part of the world, call that person, go on that date, paint that piece of art, write that script because tomorrow is not promised.

Whatever you do, do not live an unexpressed life. That's my plan and if that involves another series, a movie, directing a short film, a long film, writing more children's books, scuba diving with Dashiell...wherever that takes me I am going to live full out! cmichelle_clunie & fmichelleclunie

Hotspots Art Gallery

February Opening Reception

Photos: Robert Hardley

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Spacious split floor plan. Remodeled kitchen with all new cabinetry and appliances. Washer/ Dryer, ceiling fans, window blinds and central AC throughout. $2,500 a month First/Last/Deposit call Brian 954-610-1320

u RENTALS - WILTON MANORS DRAKE TOWER

1BD/1.5BA, high floor, West side - AMAZING sunsets. Avail March 2022 $1,400/Mo. includes cable. 1 Year lease. First, Last and Security.

Balcony, Pool, Bar-B-Q, Sauna, Laundry, Gated Parking and Security. New exterior paint, renovated hallways. Call 954-249-2343 or 802-310-9310.

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u COMPUTERS HELPMEERIC.COM ! TECH SUPPORT

Your Personal Tech Assistant. BEST RATES in the tri-county area. Specializing in Android & iPhones.

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**OPTIMA** COMPUTER REPAIR 954-817-3883

IN-HOME SERVICE. Cell phones, printers & Internet issues. Proudly serving our community for over 20 years. *Get the BEST performance, protection & value from your computer investment. *A+ Hardware & OS certified. *Friendly, professional, RELIABLE service. Reasonable rates. Call: Mike 954-817-3883 ADVERTISE IN MARKETPLACE Call 754-200-2979 or Email Classifieds@HotSpotsMedia.com

u HAIR REMOVAL HAIR REMOVAL & MORE!

Waxing, facials, trimming, shaving and body scrubs at its best. Very friendly and relaxing experience.

Visit me today. For appointment please call 954-649-9905. WWW.BRAZILLIANTOUCH.COM

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u MEDICAL SERVICES MEDICAL SERVICES FOR THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY

Serving Men and Women in our Community.

Specializing in Erectile Dysfunction, Testosterone Imbalance, STD (including local infections), Bleeding disorders, Annual with pap smear exams, and other Medical issues. Visit the Clinic C.B Singh M.D.,P.A at 2620 N.Andrews Avenue Wilton Manors Fl 33311( Near 26th ST) Call (954)565-7686 Feel free to call us for any questions. Fax (954)565-6959.

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u ELECTRICAL ‘RTS ELECTRIC’ 24-HOUR SERVICE

Quality work at a reasonable price. We also service & install any size generator. Licensed & Insured (98-CME-1807-X). 954-257-9509.

u AIR CONDITIONING CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING

Repairs, installations, indoor air quality. Residential/ Commercial. Proudly serving the tri-county area.

Quality and experience. Free service calls for all A/C makes and models. Lic/Ins CMC1249558 Call 954-274-8287 for your free estimate. **10% off your first repair**

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u PERSONAL TRAINING

IRRIGATION SYSTEM REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE

30 Years experience, excellent work, referrals upon request. Call Roberto at 954-383-8980

u CLEANING SERVICES

u LAWN MAINTENANCE / IRRIGATION LAWN MAINTENANCE - LANDSCAPE

Make your home a showplace. INTEGRITY LANDSCAPE SERVICES, LLC specializes in property clean up, tree and shrub pruning, sodding and landscape design & installation. We also do lawn maintenance.

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u TAX PREPARATION HAROLD J BLOTCHER, EA

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u MOVING/STORAGE RED BOX MOVING COMPANY

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u HANDYMAN L.H.P. HANDYMAN SERVICES

Reliable, honest, affordable general home repairs, pressure washing, painting, tile, light plumbing, light/ fan fixtures installs. Good troubleshooting. Insured.

L.H.P. Handyman Services - Al (954)683-3754

KENNY & JAY REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE

TV Wall mounting, Ceiling Fans, Bathroom, kitchen, microwave, plumbing and electric, outlets, switches, breakers. Time clocks, Upgrade breaker box, repair or replace sprinkler & pool motors, replace & remove hot water tanks & install tankless water heaters. Vanity. sinks, faucets, dishwasher & garbage disposals and SHOWER GRAB BARS. K&J 954-260-9940 BEST PRICES IN TOWN! 32 Years Experience.

By Andreus Quinones

Dear Andreus, I have two best friends, and we have been like the Three Musketeers for the last 10 years. We go everywhere together and do everything together and know all each other's secrets.

We are even integrated into each other's families. As of recent, both have new boyfriends, and I don't see them anymore, and barely speak to them. I don't want to come off as needy, but I feel left out. I miss my best friends. Is it wrong for me to say something? Maybe I should get a boyfriend. What are your thoughts?

Sincerely, Danny G. Dear Danny, Unfortunately, this is something that happens quite often. People often get so caught up in relationships (especially new ones), that they forget how to create a balance between their relationships and their friendships. I am sure it is a mistake of the head and not the heart. This is certainly not a reason to just run out and find a boyfriend. So, I would suggest that if you are feeling some kind of way, that you talk to your friends about it. Let them know that you miss them. They might very well not realize what is happening. It is perfectly normal to get immersed in one's relationship. Just make sure that you express your concerns gently, and I am sure that everything will turn out fine.

Dear Andreus, I have been going through some difficult things in my relationship. A few months ago, I caught my boyfriend cheating. Although it broke my heart, I have been working past it, and we decided to stay 124 | HotspotsMagazine.com

together. Recently, I made a mistake. We were on a cruise, and I slept with one of his friends. I know it was wrong, and I got caught up in the moment. Now he wants to break up because of it. I don't think that it is fair that I forgave him, but he can't forgive me. I don't know what to do. I do love him, and I don't want to lose him. Please help.

Sincerely, Carlisle M.

“Now he wants to break up because of it. I don't think that it is fair that I forgave him, but he can't forgive me.”

Dear Carlisle, To be perfectly honest, there is nothing that you can do. You can try to talk it out, but you cannot force anything, especially a relationship.

Forgiving him for cheating, doesn't necessarily give you a free pass in the same instance.

Cheating is not a mistake; it is a choice. To everything there is a consequence, so regardless of the past, unless he is willing to forgive you – you might have to just cut your losses. I hope it works out, but if not, then you will hopefully make better choices next time.